A consultation revealed a “strong appetite” for a nationally standardised uniform.
New national nursing uniforms are a step closed after a firm has been awarded the contract to make the new garments.
NHS Supply Chain has now instructed the firm to start production of the new uniforms ahead of planned trials to iron out any issues.
A seven-week consultation undertaken last year revealed a “strong appetite” for a nationally standardised uniform for NHS workers in England with the preferred style being a “smart scrub”. Nursing staff across Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland have been wearing standardised national uniforms for several years.
The uniform proposals mean a Band 5 Community Staff Nurse working in Liverpool would potentially wear the same uniform as a Band 5 Ward Staff Nurse in Plymouth.
The current arrangements, where NHS trusts make local decisions about uniforms, are often confusing for patients, found the consultation.
Confusing for patients.
Speaking previously about national uniforms, Chief Nursing Officer for England Ruth May explained: “Patients have told us that contact with several NHS professionals can sometimes feel confusing”.
Ms May added, “I’m pleased that there is support for a standardised uniform for NHS staff working in clinical roles in England which will help patients and the public easily identify which nursing, midwifery or care professional is providing their care.
“I look forward to the next stage which will see continued engagement across the NHS.”
Chief Allied Health Professions Officer for England Suzanne Rastrick added: “Environmental sustainability is an emerging priority in the upcoming new strategy for the allied health professions and consolidating the huge variety of uniforms currently being supplied is welcomed as a step on this journey.
“I look forward to the final outcomes, which will also offer comfort, practicality, modesty, and strengthened visibility for our allied health professionals as part of the wider healthcare team.”
